THE LIE
“Guards, take her to the dungeons. We will interrogate her until she confesses.”
The guards stepped forward, grabbing Scarlet by the arms. She struggled weakly, her pleas falling on deaf ears.
“Wait,” Agu interjected, his voice calm but firm. “If Scarlet is guilty, we need proof. Let the healer examine the goblet for traces of poison.”
The king nodded, his expression grave. “Do as the prince says. This matter must be resolved with clarity.”
---
IN THE DUNGEONS
Scarlet sat in the dimly lit cell, her knees drawn to her chest. Her tears had long dried, replaced by a cold numbness. She replayed the events in her mind, wondering if there had been another way to prevent this disaster.